Rising over 10,000 feet above sea level, Haleakala's graceful slopes can be seen from just about any point on the island. Haleakala means "House of the sun" in Hawaiian, and legend has it that the demigod Maui lassoed the sun itself from its summit to slow the sun's journey across the skies.
The park itself covers a range of natural environments. You can travel atop the highest peaks of Haleakala Crater and walk above the clouds or you can hike across richly colored landscapes, desolate deserts, and untamed wilderness. As the park stretches out to the coast nearer to sea level, you can even visit lush tropical areas full of waterfalls and streams.
Many visitors and locals wake up early to drive up to Haleakala Crater to watch the sunrise. On a clear morning, seeing the sunrise from the summit of Haleakala is an unforgettable experience. Perhaps just as spectacular are Haleakala's sunsets and the bright, starry skies revealed at night.
You can explore Haleakala at your own pace by car, bike, or by foot. The long, winding road to Haleakala National Park takes some time to drive up, but is well worth the effort. There are numerous hiking trails that offer solitude and scenic vistas, while guided hikes provide an expert's guidance and insight. This is one of Maui's most popular visitor attractions.
Things to do
Sunrise, Sunsets & Stargazing
At this altitude, views of Maui are incredible. When the skies are clear you can see three other Hawaiian Islands from Haleakala’s lookouts. Sunrises are unforgettable but sunsets can be equally as amazing. Stargazing is spectacular and the park offers stargazing programs in the summer.
Hiking & Horseback riding
There are a variety of trails along the summit and in the lush Kipahulu area including Sliding Sands and Pipiwai Trail. Hiking times range from a half hour to three-day camping expeditions. You can also explore the park by horseback.
See Endagered Species
Haleakala National Park has more endangered species than any other park in the National Park Service. Take a hike and look out for the Nene (Hawaiian Goose) and the Ahinahina (Silversword). This is the only place in the world to see the Silversword, which can take up to fifty years to bloom.
General
Rising over 10,000 feet above sea level, Haleakala's graceful slopes can be seen from just about any point on the island. Haleakala means "House of the sun" in Hawaiian, and legend has it that the demigod Maui lassoed the sun itself from its summit to slow the sun's journey across the skies.
The park itself covers a range of natural environments. You can travel atop the highest peaks of Haleakala Crater and walk above the clouds or you can hike across richly colored landscapes, desolate deserts, and untamed wilderness. As the park stretches out to the coast nearer to sea level, you can even visit lush tropical areas full of waterfalls and streams.
Many visitors and locals wake up early to drive up to Haleakala Crater to watch the sunrise. On a clear morning, seeing the sunrise from the summit of Haleakala is an unforgettable experience. Perhaps just as spectacular are Haleakala's sunsets and the bright, starry skies revealed at night.
You can explore Haleakala at your own pace by car, bike, or by foot. The long, winding road to Haleakala National Park takes some time to drive up, but is well worth the effort. There are numerous hiking trails that offer solitude and scenic vistas, while guided hikes provide an expert's guidance and insight. This is one of Maui's most popular visitor attractions.
Things to do
Sunrise, Sunsets & Stargazing At this altitude, views of Maui are incredible. When the skies are clear you can see three other Hawaiian Islands from Haleakala’s lookouts. Sunrises are unforgettable but sunsets can be equally as amazing. Stargazing is spectacular and the park offers stargazing programs in the summer.
Hiking & Horseback riding There are a variety of trails along the summit and in the lush Kipahulu area including Sliding Sands and Pipiwai Trail. Hiking times range from a half hour to three-day camping expeditions. You can also explore the park by horseback.
See Endagered Species Haleakala National Park has more endangered species than any other park in the National Park Service. Take a hike and look out for the Nene (Hawaiian Goose) and the Ahinahina (Silversword). This is the only place in the world to see the Silversword, which can take up to fifty years to bloom.
©2009 HAWAII VISITORS AND CONVENTION BUREAU
Contact & location
Maui Island, Hawaii, U.S.A.
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This travel guide also includes text from Wikitravel articles, all available at
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This travel guide also includes text from Wikipedia articles, all available at
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